The wise men are now urging establishment of Malvern as a National Laboratory retained for the future of quantum science and technology research, which would working in collaboration with all UK's universities and acrossindustry.

Acutely aware of the need for economic justification, the professors envisage  that its key role will be to fabricate and supply prototypes and concept samples.

" The research group is well supported at present by contract research funding and is to a large extent self-supporting. The initial funding required to extend its existence beyond the October deadline would therefore be relatively modest and would enable the concept of a national centre of excellence in new and emerging quantum technologies to be fully explored and developed. "

The professors are confident that this rapid transfer of new device concepts into practical demonstrations will make a significant contribution to UK industry’s future manufacturing base and to the UK economy.

With gentle irony, the letter points out that 10 of the 15 professors have gained their honours at Malvern, or through successful research which originated there and then spun off as viable business.